Your guide to NYC's public proceedings.

New York City Council

Committee on Women and Gender Equity

Feb 28, 2025

·

12:00 PM

2 hr 43 min

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Summary

A hearing on ensuring access to supports for transgender, gender non-conforming, and non-binary (TGNCNB) people in New York City.

Discussions focused on eight proposed bills and resolutions covering topics such as support for TGNCNB migrants, healthcare access, public outreach, and protection of health information.

Key issues included increasing the Trans Equity Fund to $10 million, protecting access to gender-affirming care, and addressing recent federal actions threatening TGNCNB rights.

Features testimony from the NYC Unity Project and the public.

Meeting chapters

Read summaries and watch videos for short segments that matter to you.

REMARKS

Council Member Farah Louis introduces the hearing on TGNCNB supports

Council Member Farah Louis opens the hearing of the Committee on Women and Gender Equity, focusing on ensuring access to supports for transgender, gender non-conforming, and non-binary people in New …

0:00:25

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31 sec

REMARKS

Overview of eight pieces of legislation addressing TGNCNB issues

Council Member Farah Louis provides a detailed overview of eight pieces of legislation being heard at the committee meeting. These bills and resolutions address various aspects of support and protection …

0:00:57

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161 sec

REMARKS

Statistics and healthcare services for TGNCNB individuals in New York City

Council Member Farah Louis presents statistics on TGNCNB individuals in New York State and discusses the gender-affirming care services provided by New York City Health and Hospitals. She highlights the …

0:03:38

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91 sec

REMARKS

Challenges faced by TGNCNB individuals in accessing healthcare

Council Member Farah Louis addresses the challenges and disparities faced by TGNCNB individuals when accessing healthcare services. She emphasizes the impact of discrimination and prejudice on their health outcomes and …

0:05:10

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58 sec

REMARKS

Recent federal actions affecting TGNCNB rights and NYC's response

Council Member Farah Louis discusses recent federal executive orders that impact TGNCNB rights, particularly in relation to gender-affirming care. She also mentions New York City's response to these actions. - …

0:06:09

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52 sec

REMARKS

Commission on Gender Equity and hearing objectives

Council Member Farah Louis explains the role of the Commission on Gender Equity (CGE) and outlines the objectives of the hearing. She emphasizes the importance of understanding and addressing the …

0:07:01

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121 sec

REMARKS

Closing remarks and handover to other council members

Council Member Farah Louis concludes her opening remarks by thanking the attendees, staff, and stakeholders. She then hands over the floor to her colleagues for their remarks. - The council …

0:09:03

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17 sec

REMARKS

Council Member Shahana Hanif introduces the AFFIRM Act to protect gender-affirming care facilities

Council Member Shahana Hanif introduces and explains the AFFIRM Act, which aims to extend protections similar to those for reproductive health facilities to facilities providing gender-affirming care. She emphasizes the …

0:09:21

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3 min

REMARKS

Council Member Schulman's opening remarks on TGNCNB support in NYC

Council Member Lynn C. Schulman, chair of the NYC Council's Committee on Health, delivers opening remarks for a hearing on ensuring access to supports for transgender, gender nonconforming, and nonbinary …

0:12:32

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151 sec

REMARKS

Council Member Crystal Hudson expresses support for transgender rights legislation

Council Member Crystal Hudson, a member of the LGBTQIA+ caucus, expresses strong support for the legislative package aimed at protecting and improving rights for transgender, non-conforming, and non-binary New Yorkers. …

0:15:08

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45 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Introduction and overview of the NYC Unity Project

Ronald Porcelli, Executive Director of the NYC Unity Project, introduces the organization and its role in coordinating LGBTQ+ services across New York City. The NYC Unity Project is described as …

0:16:28

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139 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Legal protections and anti-discrimination policies for LGBTQ+ individuals

The testimony outlines the robust legal protections and anti-discrimination policies in place for LGBTQ+ individuals in New York City, particularly focusing on the New York City Human Rights Law and …

0:18:47

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62 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Healthcare access and initiatives for TGNCNB community

The testimony highlights various initiatives and efforts to improve healthcare access and quality for the TGNCNB community in New York City. These include the LGBTQ+ Healthcare Bill of Rights, culturally …

0:19:50

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7 min

AGENCY TESTIMONY

HIV prevention and sexual health services

The testimony outlines specific initiatives and services aimed at HIV prevention and sexual health for the LGBTQ+ community, particularly addressing the disproportionate rates of HIV and STIs among this population. …

0:27:16

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90 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Economic empowerment and workforce development programs

The testimony highlights initiatives focused on economic empowerment and workforce development for the LGBTQ+ community, particularly TGNCNBI individuals. These programs aim to break cycles of economic hardship and foster long-term …

0:28:47

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82 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Mental health support and family acceptance initiatives

The testimony outlines various initiatives aimed at supporting mental health and promoting family acceptance for LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly TGNCNB youth. These programs focus on creating supportive environments and addressing specific …

0:30:09

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146 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Youth support services, including drop-in centers and housing programs

The testimony highlights various support services and programs specifically designed for LGBTQ+ youth, particularly those experiencing homelessness or housing instability. These initiatives focus on creating safe, affirming spaces and providing …

0:32:35

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115 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Interagency coordination to support LGBTQ+ communities

The testimony outlines the NYC Unity Project's efforts to coordinate across city agencies to enhance support for LGBTQ+ communities. This coordination aims to improve government operations and service delivery for …

0:34:31

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40 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Resource access and information dissemination for LGBTQ+ community

The testimony highlights various initiatives and tools designed to improve access to resources and information for the LGBTQ+ community, particularly TGNCNB individuals. These efforts aim to connect community members with …

0:35:12

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3 min

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Position on proposed legislation for TGNCNB protections

The testimony briefly addresses the NYC Unity Project's stance on proposed legislation aimed at offering additional protections to the TGNCNB community. While generally supportive, the organization expresses a need for …

0:38:37

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52 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Closing remarks on ongoing commitment to LGBTQ+ rights and support

Ronald Porcelli concludes the testimony with powerful closing remarks, emphasizing the ongoing commitment to LGBTQ+ rights and support in New York City. He reflects on the progress made and the …

0:39:30

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75 sec

Q&A

Council Member Farah Louis questions Ronald Porcelli on transgender rights and services

Council Member Farah Louis questions Ronald Porcelli, Executive Director of NYC Unity Project, about the impact of federal policy changes on transgender and non-binary rights, and the city's response to …

0:40:48

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4 min

Q&A

Discussion of proposed legislation Intro 1201

Council Member Shahana Hanif inquires about the administration's position on the proposed legislation, particularly Intro 1201. Ronald Porcelli, Executive Director of NYC Unity Project, expresses support for the intent behind …

0:45:11

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63 sec

Q&A

NYC Unity Project's initiatives to support TGNCNB individuals

Council Member Shahana Hanif asks about the enforcement of existing clinic access law for reproductive health facilities. Ronald Porcelli responds by discussing recent initiatives of the NYC Unity Project to …

0:46:16

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77 sec

Q&A

Funding for community-based organizations supporting TGNCNB healthcare access

Council Member Shahana Hanif inquires about the community-based organizations (CBOs) funded by the NYC Unity Project's initiative. Ronald Porcelli provides information about the ongoing process of contracting with CBOs. - …

0:47:34

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38 sec

Q&A

Administration's steps to address current challenges for TGNCNB community

Council Member Shahana Hanif asks about the administration's steps to address current challenges for the TGNCNB community. Ronald Porcelli outlines various initiatives and ongoing efforts. - Continuation and growth of …

0:48:13

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104 sec

Q&A

City's efforts to educate the broader population about TGNCNB rights and inclusivity

Council Member Shahana Hanif inquires about the city's efforts to educate the broader population about TGNCNB rights and inclusivity. Ronald Porcelli outlines various initiatives and resources available. - Updated information …

0:49:58

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156 sec

Q&A

Data on complaints reported to the City Commission on Human Rights (CCHR)

Council Member Shahana Hanif inquires about data on complaints reported to the City Commission on Human Rights (CCHR). Ronald Porcelli provides available data and discusses the need for improved data …

0:52:36

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3 min

Q&A

Addressing healthcare provider discrimination and ensuring access to care

Council Member Shahana Hanif raises concerns about healthcare provider discrimination, particularly regarding appointment cancellations at hospitals like NYU Langone and Mount Sinai. Ronald Porcelli discusses the city's response and available …

0:55:40

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142 sec

Q&A

Tracking gender-affirming care providers and H&H funding capacity

Council Member Shahana Hanif inquires about tracking healthcare providers delivering gender-affirming care and the funding capacity for H&H facilities. Ronald Porcelli discusses the administration's commitment to supporting these services. - …

0:58:03

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54 sec

Q&A

City's response to federal executive orders affecting TGNCNB rights

Council Member Shahana Hanif inquires about the city's response to federal executive orders affecting TGNCNB rights. Ronald Porcelli outlines the administration's ongoing commitment and actions to protect TGNCNB individuals. - …

0:58:57

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122 sec

Q&A

Discussion on the administration's public statements regarding TGNCNB rights

Council Member Farah Louis inquires about the administration's vocal stance on TGNCNB rights, seeking clarification on whether there have been public statements or information shared. Ronald Porcelli responds, emphasizing that …

1:01:00

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39 sec

REMARKS

Reflection on the need for more agency involvement and data on TGNCNB services

Council Member Shahana Hanif reflects on the city's responsibility to do better in protecting trans rights and expresses the need for more agency involvement in the hearing. She highlights the …

1:01:39

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69 sec

REMARKS

Overview of the NYC Unity Project's role and importance of comprehensive testimony

Ronald Porcelli explains the significance of the NYC Unity Project's role in providing a comprehensive overview of TGNCNB programs and services across city agencies. He emphasizes the historic nature of …

1:02:49

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87 sec

Q&A

Discussion of Intro 1200-2025 on public information campaign for TGNCNB rights and resources

Council Member Farah Louis inquires about potential obstacles to implementing a public information and outreach campaign for legal rights and resources for transgender and gender non-conforming New Yorkers, as proposed …

1:04:16

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98 sec

Q&A

City's response to the needs of transgender and non-binary migrants

Council Member Farah Louis inquires about the city's response to the unique needs of transgender and non-binary migrants, referencing Intro 1202-2025. Ronald Porcelli provides a brief response, emphasizing that all …

1:05:55

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23 sec

Q&A

Barriers in responding to the needs of transgender and non-binary migrants

Ronald Porcelli discusses the various barriers faced in responding to the needs of transgender and non-binary migrants. He highlights language access as a primary issue and emphasizes the importance of …

1:06:20

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62 sec

Q&A

Steps taken by DOHMH to protect patients at H&H facilities

Council Member Farah Louis inquires about steps taken by the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) to protect patients at Health and Hospitals (H&H) facilities in light of federal …

1:07:23

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76 sec

Q&A

Status of the gender and racial equity advisory board

Council Member Farah Louis inquires about the status of the gender and racial equity advisory board established by Local Law 30 of 2021. Ronald Porcelli, unable to speak directly about …

1:08:40

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84 sec

Q&A

City's adherence to existing insurance health protections for TGNCNB people

Council Member Shahana Hanif asks whether the city upholds existing New York State and New York City insurance health protections for TGNCNB people. Ronald Porcelli expresses uncertainty and commits to …

1:10:04

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63 sec

REMARKS

Closing remarks and emphasis on the importance of community input

Ronald Porcelli delivers closing remarks, emphasizing the importance of staying to hear public testimony and the critical nature of community input, especially during challenging times. He expresses gratitude to the …

1:11:08

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22 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Bryan Ellicott-Cook, Director of Government Relations at SAGE

Bryan Ellicott-Cook, representing SAGE, testified in support of all agenda items before the committee, emphasizing their importance for the dignity and well-being of transgender and non-binary individuals. They highlighted the …

1:13:50

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110 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Nadia Swanson, Director of Technical Assistance and Advocacy at Ali Forney Center

Nadia Swanson, representing the Ali Forney Center, testified in support of various bills and resolutions aimed at supporting LGBTQ and transgender youth, particularly those experiencing homelessness. They emphasized the need …

1:15:46

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144 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Zephyr Merkur Herrera, Outreach Coordinator at GMHC's Testing Center

Zephyr Merkur Herrera, Outreach Coordinator at GMHC's Testing Center, testifies on GMHC's commitment to serving TGNCNB New Yorkers and expresses support for several introductions and resolutions. They provide an overview …

1:18:13

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151 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Dr. Victoria Ngo, Resident Physician and Union Member from Committee of Interns and Residents

Dr. Victoria Ngo, a resident physician in New York City and member of the Committee of Interns and Residents union, testifies in favor of bills and resolutions protecting access to …

1:20:44

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94 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Qween Jean, Founder and Executive Director of Black Trans Liberation

Qween Jean, founder and executive director of Black Trans Liberation, testifies on the need to increase funding for the trans equity fund from $3.4 million to at least $10 million. …

1:22:22

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3 min

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Dalia A. on LGBTQ youth homelessness

Dalia A. testifies about the crisis of LGBTQ youth homelessness in New York City. She shares personal experiences and statistics highlighting the disproportionate rates of homelessness, suicide attempts, and shelter …

1:26:40

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87 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Aspen on protecting transgender New Yorkers

Aspen, a 16-year-old transgender youth from Brooklyn, testifies in support of protecting transgender New Yorkers and passing resolutions to safeguard gender-affirming care. They share their personal experiences with gender-affirming healthcare …

1:28:11

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93 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Sorian R. on Support for Transgender Rights and Services

Sorian R., a 24-year-old trans masculine non-binary resident of Astoria, Queens, testified in support of increased funding and services for transgender, non-conforming, and non-binary New Yorkers. They emphasized the importance …

1:29:56

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87 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Jacqueline B. on the need for increased budget for for trans-led organizations

Jacqueline Blake, a cisgender heterosexual woman from The Bronx, testified as an ally to the trans community. She emphasized the need for increased budget for trans-led organizations and brought attention …

1:31:26

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42 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Julia Davidson, Member of Advocates for Trans Law Students

Julia Davidson, a member of Advocates for Trans Law Students, testifies about the challenges faced by transgender and non-binary individuals in New York City. She emphasizes the increased difficulties and …

1:32:17

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118 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Tiffany Jade Munroe, Trans Justice Coordinator at Caribbean Equality Project, on Gender-Affirming Care and the AFFIRM Act

Tiffany Jade Munroe, representing the Caribbean Equality Project, testified in support of Intro 1201-2025 (the AFFIRM Act) to ensure protection and accessibility of gender-affirming care for transgender New Yorkers. She …

1:35:03

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140 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Kimberleigh Smith, Executive Vice President for Policy and Advocacy at Callen-Lorde Community Health Center

Kimberleigh Smith from Callen-Lorde Community Health Center addresses the urgent need to protect transgender healthcare access in New York City amidst increasing threats and anxiety in the community. She urges …

1:37:26

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132 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Jasmina Salimova, Representative from Girls for Gender Equity

Jasmina Salimova, representing Girls for Gender Equity (GGE), urges the NYC City Council to reaffirm its commitment to protecting and supporting transgender and gender nonconforming people, especially youth. She emphasizes …

1:39:45

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134 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Mason Crawford, Harm Reduction Coordinator at Safe Horizon Streetwork Project

Mason Crawford, representing Safe Horizon's Streetwork Project, testified about their organization's work supporting transgender, gender non-conforming, and non-binary (TGNCNB) New Yorkers. He described Streetwork Project's services, including drop-in centers, shelters, …

1:42:04

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138 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Alyssa L. on the Importance of Gender-Affirming Care and Protections for LGBTQ+ Youth

Alyssa L., a parent of a 16-year-old transgender son, testified in support of all the bills and resolutions discussed, emphasizing the importance of gender-affirming care and protections for LGBTQ+ youth. …

1:45:09

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123 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Joythy R. on Supporting Trans New Yorkers

Joythy R., mother of a young trans woman, testifies in support of resolutions and bills to protect and support trans New Yorkers, especially trans kids. She shares her personal experience …

1:47:19

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126 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Debbie R., Artist and Activist

Debbie R., a long-time New York City resident and LGBTQ activist, spoke out against recent attacks on transgender people and immigrants, viewing them as a resurgence of fascism in the …

1:49:43

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134 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Michael J. on the Importance of Gender-Affirming Care

Michael J., a cisgender father of a transgender child, testifies in support of all proposed resolutions, emphasizing the importance of gender-affirming care and the quality of medical support his family …

1:52:01

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113 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Christine D. on TGNCNBI Rights and Support

Christine D. shares their personal journey as a transgender individual growing up in a conservative family and working as a teacher in NYC public schools. They express support for all …

1:54:02

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135 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Diana Adams, Executive Director of Chosen Family Law Center

Diana Adams, Executive Director of Chosen Family Law Center, testifies in support of a package of bills aimed at protecting and supporting transgender, gender non-conforming, and non-binary (TGNCNB) individuals in …

1:57:31

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135 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Ethan Lin, Attorney from the LGBTQ Law and Policy Unit at Legal Aid Society, on TGNCNBI Rights and Protections

Ethan Lin from the Legal Aid Society's LGBTQ Law and Policy Unit testified on the urgent need for New York City to protect and expand rights for transgender, gender non-conforming, …

1:59:54

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127 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Julian Castronovo, Supervising Attorney of LGBTQ HIV Unit at Brooklyn Legal Services

Julian Castronovo, a supervising attorney at Brooklyn Legal Services, testifies about the challenges faced by transgender and non-binary New Yorkers in accessing legal services and enforcing their rights. They emphasize …

2:02:05

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148 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Vladimir Martinez, Director of Policy and Government Affairs at the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Community Center

Vladimir Martinez, representing the LGBT Community Center, testified on the importance of supporting transgender, gender non-conforming, and non-binary (TGNCNB) people in New York City. He emphasized the need for increased …

2:04:37

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144 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Poonam S., Member of the Public

Poonam S., a self-identified lesbian and disabled person, expressed concerns about the direction of transgender care, citing historical examples of medical controversies and recent policy changes in other countries. She …

2:07:09

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139 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Sam Skaller, Representative from New York City Alliance Against Sexual Assault

Sam Skaller, representing the New York City Alliance Against Sexual Assault, testified in strong support of measures to protect transgender and gender-expansive communities. They emphasized the increased risk of sexual …

2:10:04

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138 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Alaina Daniels, Co-founder and Executive Director of Transformative Schools

Alaina Daniels, a neurodivergent lesbian non-binary trans woman and co-founder of Transformative Schools, testifies about the need for increased funding and leadership roles for trans-led organizations in New York City. …

2:12:34

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179 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Ro Peña, Co-founder and Director of Programming at Transformative Schools

Ro Peña, a non-binary educator and co-founder of Transformative Schools, testified about the need for increased funding for trans-led organizations. They emphasized the importance of investing in organizations with lived …

2:15:42

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129 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Sharon Brown against LGBTQIA+ rights and services

Sharon Leslie Brown testified against LGBTQIA+ rights and services, citing religious beliefs as the basis for her opposition. She argued for the cessation of funding for LGBTQIA+ services and the …

2:18:07

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167 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Raul Rivera, Member of the Public

Raul Rivera, introducing himself as a member of the public and son of Juanita Figueroa, criticizes the NYC City Council, particularly its female members, for what he perceives as attacks …

2:21:21

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114 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Kayt T., Community Organizer and Registered Lobbyist

Kayt T., a community organizer and registered lobbyist, testifies about the recent challenges faced by the TGNC community in New York City. She emphasizes the urgent need for support and …

2:23:39

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134 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Audacia Ray, Interim Executive Director of NYC Anti-Violence Project

Audacia Ray, the interim executive director of the NYC Anti-Violence Project, expressed support for several bills and resolutions aimed at protecting TGNCNB rights and services in New York City. They …

2:26:22

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141 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Julia, Member of the Public

Julia, a cisgender woman and mother, expresses gratitude for the hearing and voices her support for the TGNCNB community as a concerned New Yorker. She emphasizes the importance of New …

2:28:48

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91 sec

REMARKS

Council Member Shahana Hanif affirms the existence and rights of transgender individuals

Council Member Shahana Hanif summarizes the purpose of the hearing and emphasizes the importance of making New York City more inclusive and safer for transgender individuals. She clarifies that the …

2:30:37

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59 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Amelia Prochaska, Training Specialist at Right To Be

Amelia Prochaska, a training specialist from Right To Be (formerly Hollaback), testified in support of legislation addressing issues facing the transgender, non-conforming, and non-binary community in New York City. She …

2:31:48

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117 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Natalie Fiorenzo, Senior Corrections Specialist at New York County Defender Services

Natalie Fiorenzo, representing New York County Defender Services, testified on the urgent need for protections for transgender, gender non-conforming, non-binary, and intersex (TGNCNBI) individuals in New York City's correctional facilities. …

2:34:01

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125 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Dr. George Danias, Resident Physician in Psychiatry at NYC Public Hospital System, on Gender-Affirming Care

Dr. George Danias, a resident physician in psychiatry at the NYC public hospital system, testifies in support of resolutions protecting gender-affirming care in New York City. They emphasize the importance …

2:36:24

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120 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Erika Núñez Céspedes, Director of UX and Design at Planned Parenthood of Greater New York (PPGNY)

Erika Núñez Céspedes, representing Planned Parenthood of Greater New York (PPGNY), testified on the importance of protecting access to gender-affirming care and supporting TGNC communities in New York City. She …

2:38:34

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122 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Andy Izenson, Senior Legal Director of Chosen Family Law Center

Andy Izenson, Senior Legal Director at Chosen Family Law Center, testified in support of the comprehensive package of bills addressing TGNCNB rights and protections in New York City. They emphasized …

2:41:00

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129 sec

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